Encoderless and safe control of drives via Profinet

Safety functions without encoders reduce costs and increase process reliability. The Combivert F6 drive controller and Combivert S6 servo drives from KEB Automation are now certified in the Pro device variant for communication via the Profinet real-time Ethernet interface. For the automation of their systems, users thus have another standard available to implement concepts with encoderless safety.

What is the goal of functional safety? The short answer is to minimize the risks posed by technical equipment to people and the environment. Machining or machine tools, for example, can endanger operators or technicians through tools that rotate at high speed. Functionally safe system solutions for machines and plants are based on a consistent architecture right down to the mechanical interface. This results in potential savings in terms of space, time and costs, as well as expanded possibilities in application. Certified hardware and software are used to simplify the project planning and development of applications with safety solutions.

Flexible and scalable in application

KEB drives offer scalable safety functions directly in the drive controller. In the PRO device variant, the Combivert F6 and S6 enable the implementation of encoderless safety. Here a flexible adaptation of the safety functions and limit values can be done via digital I/Os. Up to eight safety configurations are possible per function. The Combivis 6 software tool enables customers to easily commission the various systems.

The Combivert F6 and S6 device series cover a wide power range from 0.75 kW to 450 kW and can be used to operate different motor technologies such as asynchronous, synchronous, synchronous reluctance, IPM, torque, linear and high-speed motors with speeds up to 45,000 rpm.

The safe encoderless speed monitoring can be used independently of the motor used and thus for a wide range of applications. Here, different installation and cooling types offer high scalability in the application.